Staff members at Sammamish’s Mary Queen of Peace Church were shocked to discover Feb. 2 two defibrillators were stolen sometime during the previous week.

Defibrillators are common fixtures in many local buildings because the devices can assess and apply potentially life-saving therapy to people experiencing a cardiac incident, often before police and fire personnel arrive. The devices, officially called Automatic External Defibrillators, cost approximately $1,100 each.

“It’s hard to believe someone would steal a life-saving device from a church,” Parish Administrator Rich Shively said. “We would be glad to have the devices returned to the church, no questions asked.”

Although it’s hoped the devices will be returned promptly, Sammamish Police are seeking information from the public regarding the theft. Anyone with information is asked to call 425-295-0770 during business hours.